Mythic Figure: John Wick as Baba Yaga
Throughout the series, John Wick is described in mythic terms. He lurks behind shadows and appears when he must seek revenge for the wrongdoings of others. Ultimately, his past gave him the nickname Baba Yaga but his actions throughout the franchise further cement his identity as a boogeyman like figure.
Origins of Baba Yaga
John Wick is called Baba Yaga because he is the type of assassin you send to kill demons. ie he was so good at what he does, they think no mortal is his rival; that the only missions John Wick accepts are missions no ordinary human could ever accomplish, even if they tried. The term “Baba Yaga” is derived from the Russian language. However, in the context of “John Wick”, the word might have been misinterpreted. It appears that the writers of the movie misread the terms “babayka” with “Baba Yaga”.
Inspiration Behind the Story
The story is loosely inspired by an incident in Texas involving former Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell, who wrote Lone Survivor, about his fireteam’s ordeal during Operation Red Wings in Afghanistan in 2005. Luttrell was given a yellow labrador puppy, whom he named DASY, after the members of his fireteam.
Jardani: John Wick’s Real Name
John Wick’s Real Name Is […] He says this in an effort to prove that he is worthy of being helped by the mysterious new group. Jardani means John in Romani, and since John reverts to calling himself this during the exchange, it appears that Jardani Jovonovich is his actual birth name.
Significance of John Wick’s Tattoo
John’s tattoo reads, “Fortis Fortuna Adiuvat,” or “fortune favors the brave” in Latin. This is also a lose translation of the motto of the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marines — although their spelling is “Fortes Fortuna Juvat.” This is common enough that it’s not conclusive evidence alone, but it’s definitely a starting point.